Opinion-Editorials

February’s sentencing of former state Sen. Leland Yee in a political corruption case closed a dark chapter in the history of the Legislature, and also presents an opportunity to close the legal loopholes that may allow such behavior again.

Re “Potent drug tied to fatal overdoses ” (Page 1A, March 29): Fentanyl has been making headlines nationwide and has contributed to other overdose crises, and potentially contributed to six deaths in Sacramento County. Fentanyl abuse has become a major problem in Orange County, portions of which we...

Re: “ Potent problem: Fentanyl, a deadly drug used to spike heroin and cocaine, returns to O.C. ” [Front page, March 16]: Jenna Chandler’s article underscores the need to crack down on fentanyl drug trafficking. As her article vividly demonstrates, fentanyl abuse has become a public health problem...

This promises to be a pivotal year for taxpayers. With special interests and their allies gearing up to push for tax increases at the November ballot box, we will see whether Californians have had enough or will give the green light for more spending.

Published by the Vista Press on December 22, 2015 The Christmas season is a time of hope, joy and giving, making it one of my favorite times of the year. Yet, recent violent events both abroad and at home have contributed to a sense of unease. The terrible shooting earlier this month in San...

What is more important to you and your neighbors? Better roads for your commute or a high-speed train to San Francisco that continues to escalate in cost? If Sacramento politicians have their way, that answer would be high-speed rail despite ominous signs.

Published by the Vista Press on November 11, 2015 November 11 is Veterans Day, which is observed on the anniversary of the World War I armistice that ended hostilities on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. This day is a time for us to say thank you to our veterans...

Senator Bates appeared on KOCT-TV Oceanside’s “Journalist Roundtable” on November 5, 2015. She discussed her legislative priorities and other state issues with host Kent Davy, KPBS's Alison St John and The San Diego Union-Tribune's Logan Jenkins. The Senator appears at the 33:30 mark.

Recently, legislative Democrats approved the final California state budget for 2015-16 with Gov. Jerry Brown’s blessing. While there are some things to like, such as increased funding for K-12 and higher education, there were many provisions that I could not support.

At the same time that Californians want clean energy, they want it to be affordable and reliable. Wind does not always blow, the sun does not always shine, and these sources are more expensive than traditional ones.